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. 2024 Dec;25(8):1177-1199.
doi: 10.1007/s11121-024-01720-8. Epub 2024 Sep 3.

The Promise and Challenges of Integrating Biological and Prevention Sciences: A Community-Engaged Model for the Next Generation of Translational Research

Leslie D Leve  1   2   3 , Mariano Kanamori  4 , Kathryn L Humphreys  5 , Sara R Jaffee  6 , Robin Nusslock  7 , Veronica Oro  8 , Luke W Hyde  9
Affiliations

The Promise and Challenges of Integrating Biological and Prevention Sciences: A Community-Engaged Model for the Next Generation of Translational Research

Leslie D Leve et al. Prev Sci. 2024 Dec.

Abstract

Beginning with the successful sequencing of the human genome two decades ago, the possibility of developing personalized health interventions based on one's biology has captured the imagination of researchers, medical providers, and individuals seeking health care services. However, the application of a personalized medicine approach to emotional and behavioral health has lagged behind the development of personalized approaches for physical health conditions. There is potential value in developing improved methods for integrating biological science with prevention science to identify risk and protective mechanisms that have biological underpinnings, and then applying that knowledge to inform prevention and intervention services for emotional and behavioral health. This report represents the work of a task force appointed by the Board of the Society for Prevention Research to explore challenges and recommendations for the integration of biological and prevention sciences. We present the state of the science and barriers to progress in integrating the two approaches, followed by recommended strategies that would promote the responsible integration of biological and prevention sciences. Recommendations are grounded in Community-Based Participatory Research approaches, with the goal of centering equity in future research aimed at integrating the two disciplines to ultimately improve the well-being of those who have disproportionately experienced or are at risk for experiencing emotional and behavioral problems.

Keywords: Community-based participatory research; Genomics; Integration; Neuroimaging; Prevention.

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Conflict of interest statement

Declarations. Ethics Approval: Not applicable, this article does not contain any studies with human participants performed by any of the authors. Consent to Participate: Not applicable. Conflict of Interest: The authors declare no competing interests.

Figures

Fig. 1
Fig. 1
Prevention Research Cycle. Note: Adapted from the Institute of Medicine (1994)’s five-step model for assessment, intervention, and dissemination
Fig. 2
Fig. 2
Researcher-Community Collaboration Continuum. Source: Clinical and Translational Science Awards Consortium. (2011). Principles of community engagement. Rockville, MD: US Gov. Printing Office
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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